Overview & Reviews

Few small cars have the following of the Volkswagen Jetta, one of the company's best-selling models in the United States. The name, says VW, refers to the Atlantic jetstream, "combined with the luxury and power of a modern jetliner." We're not sure about comparing the cabin and performance of this compact sedan and wagon to a Lear jet, but for much of its history, the Jetta appealed to buyers with its upscale design, refined cabin and strong engine options. It essentially bridged the gap between everyday compact economy cars and entry-level premium brand compact sedans. It was a niche almost unto itself.

More recent times, however, have seen VW go mainstream with the Jetta, cutting its price to make it a more viable option for small car shoppers. One of the most notable downsides of the associated cost-cutting was cheaper cabin trim. So more modern versions are cheaper but less distinctive. That said, a new or used Jetta remains a solid pick for shoppers looking for a compact car with European flair, good performance and, in the case of the TDI-powered versions, impressive fuel efficiency.

Current Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta is VW's most affordable sedan. There are five trim levels available: base, S, SE, SEL and TDI. The Jetta Hybrid and the performance-oriented Jetta GLI are both reviewed separately.

The base car is a stripper that must be special ordered and doesn't even come with air-conditioning. The S comes more reasonably equipped, with power/heated side mirrors, power door locks, air-conditioning and keyless entry. Both of these trims are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces a wheezy 115 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional.

Stepping up to the SE and SEL trims gets you a more desirable 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 170 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. The SE gets the same transmission choices as the lower trims, while the SEL is automatic-only. Besides the engine, these upper trims have access to more standard and optional features like heated front seats, Bluetooth and an iPod interface. The TDI, which is equipped similarly to the SE, features a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that is 50-state compliant and produces 140 hp and very impressive fuel economy. A six-speed manual or Volkswagen's DSG dual-clutch automated manual transmission are available.

In reviews, we've found the latest Jetta to be a fairly refined, roomy and comfortable compact sedan. The improvements made this year, such as the replacement of the humdrum five-cylinder engine with a perkier turbocharged four-cylinder and the fitment of an independent rear suspension for all trim levels, have boosted both overall performance and handling composure. As such, the current Jetta stands as one of the more appealing choices in this segment.

Used Volkswagen Jetta Models
The current, sixth-generation Jetta debuted for 2011. Compared to the previous generation, this Jetta is bigger and has a roomier backseat. But it also lacks the upscale interior of prior models.

The original engine lineup consisted of the base 2.0-liter inline-4 (115 hp and 125 lb-ft), a 2.5-liter inline-5 (170 hp and 177 lb-ft) and the turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel inline-4 (140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque). The first two engines could be had with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel offered a choice between a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The following year saw only minor changes, while four-wheel disc brakes were made standard across the board for 2013. Potential buyers should note that these Jettas, though otherwise similar, lack the current Jetta's notable improvements. The latter include a more sophisticated fully independent rear suspension (previously exclusive to the Jetta GLI) for all trims as well as the substitution of the peppy yet more fuel-efficient turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine for the previous five-cylinder engine. These years also lack the availability of a rearview camera and VW Car-Net telematics.

The previous VW Jetta marked the fifth generation of Volkswagen's venerable four-door. It was introduced for 2005 (overlapping with the previous generation for one year) and ran through 2010. The sedan was the only available body style until the debut of the Sportwagen in 2009. Unlike the current car, the sedan and wagon were nearly identical save for the latter's extra cargo space.

Trim levels originally included the Value Edition, 2.5, TDI, 2.0T and GLI. The base engine was a 2.5-liter five-cylinder that initially made 150 hp, while the 2.0T and GLI featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produced 200 hp. This engine was available with Volkswagen's appealing DSG dual-clutch automated manual transmission.

The first diesel-powered fifth-generation TDI became the victim of new emissions regulations after 2006, but for those interested in getting excellent fuel economy, a used 2005-'06 Jetta TDI with its 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder (100 hp, 177 lb-ft of torque) should be a good pick. The TDI returned for 2009 with a new, cleaner-burning 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that produced 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual was standard and DSG was optional.

For 2008, VW reorganized the trim levels to S, SE, Wolfsburg (featuring the 2.0T engine) and SEL trims. The base engine's output rose by 20 horses (to 170 hp) and the GLI became its own distinct model within the VW family. The following year VW added more standard equipment (including stability control) and introduced an improved navigation system. Notably, '09 was the only year you could get the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine in the Sportwagen; it came with the SEL trim level. For this Jetta's final year, VW improved the interior and created the sport-tuned TDI Cup "Street" Edition.

In reviews, we found this Volkswagen Jetta set itself apart from domestic and Japanese economy sedans by offering a distinctly European interior and driving experience. It was a bit more expensive, but its higher-quality cabin, generous features list and quality engineering made it seem worth the extra investment. This Jetta was also a bit bigger than before, offering generous legroom, a large trunk and a more compliant ride than before. The GLI was also quite fun to drive. If there was anything that held this Jetta back, it was its styling, which just didn't resonate with buyers like its hugely successful predecessor.

The fourth generation, sold in sedan form from 1999-2005 and as a wagon from 2001-'05, was the most popular Jetta yet, and arguably the best-looking. It received minor styling and interior updates for 2004. Front seat-mounted side airbags were standard throughout the run; full-length side curtain airbags were added for 2001. It was also an entertaining car to drive and had top-notch build and materials quality. Scant rear-seat legroom was its major shortcoming. Although reliability has been spotty, a fourth-gen Volkswagen Jetta is still a good buy on the used market if its service history checks out clean.

As the base 2.0-liter engine offered weak acceleration and mediocre fuel economy, we recommend getting a fourth-generation Jetta with the excellent turbocharged 1.8T four-cylinder. It was available on the sedan starting in 2000 and on the wagon starting in 2002. Horsepower on the 1.8T also went from 150 to 180 in '02, but both versions of this engine were enjoyable. For even more power (but worse fuel economy), the VR6 engine was available, first with 174 hp and later upgraded to 200 hp for '02. This engine was only available on the sport-tuned GLI model for 2004 and later. With its firmer suspension and sport-themed body modifications, the GLI could also be had with the 180-hp 1.8T engine.

The diesel-powered Jetta TDI was offered throughout this generation (2002-'05 on the wagon) and provided mileage in the 40s. The 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder initially produced 90 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque and was upgraded to 100 hp and 177 lb-ft for 2004.

Although not as upscale as its successors, the third-generation VW Jetta was also quite popular. It was on sale from 1993 to mid-1999, though a strike at the assembly plant significantly limited '93 sales. Dual front airbags were phased in during the '94 model year. Air-conditioning was standard on most Jettas of this era, and ABS was generally optional. None of the third-gen Volkswagen Jettas were quick, not even the GLX model, which had a 172-hp VR6 engine, but all exhibited responsive handling.

User Reviews:

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  WOW - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Justin - November 30 - 10:16 pm

  I just got this Jetta after owning an Audi A4. It handles better, the pickup is better, and so too is the fuel economy. With the new body style, you no longer feel like you are driving around in your little brothers car. This is an amazing car. The interior is plush and well thought out, and the exterior is sleek and refined. My only advice would be to be sure to spring for the 2.0T engine. While the other styles do offer ample power, the 2.0T really gives you excellent go power. I will never buy another Audi again, not because they arent wonderful too...but because the only thing missing from the VW is the five rings on the front...oh, and the larger pricetag.

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  Dah Vdubyah!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By flyjetta - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Well.. I like my Jetta. I bought it in February of 2000. Since then its been very reliable. I had the maf go and it had to be replaced. I do aftermarket modifications so I was really nervous about things going wrong. The car has done well... the interior rattles alot. The window hasnt fallen but knock on wood.. yeah.. I know it has its problems.. but how else can you get heated seats, mirrors, washers, european feel and look, super adjustable seats, telescoping wheel and tons of safety features for around 20k? Nowhere.. every car has quirks.. check the safety ratings of a vdub.. and youll see you are safe riding in one..

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  I dont know if Id recommend this car! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JettaSacto - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Initially, I have to admit that I was more happy of owning my Jetta; afterall, it is a VR6/GLX! However, after driving it for just a year, or lets say 12,000 miles later its computer system strated to get weired on me. I did not appreciate having to bring it in for service three times to the shop within an extent of 4 months! Well, thats not all. The electronic windows started to malfunction both the passenger and driver side. Huhhh...Im fed up of this crap. Poor quality control is obvious. I hope that the German engineers who developed the Jetta had put more thought into quality check.

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  Athletic yet elegant car - Fun to drive - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Thanh - November 30 - 10:00 am

  I have had my 2002 Jetta GLI VR6 with 6M for a couple of weeks and love every moment I spend driving it. The engine pulls strongly without much efforts. The handling is also excellent. Love everything about it.

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  I love my TDI Jetta - 2015 Volkswagen Jetta
  By James Villanueva - November 29 - 6:28 pm

  Love the handling, very precise with mpgs!

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  1999 Volkswagen Jetta - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VW 3 - November 28 - 1:53 pm

  I purchased my VW Jetta and it has been great for a year. I had problems with the dash lights behind the temperature panel. Then it started to have electrical problems. I could not open the gas filler door, then the alarm would not lock the doors, then the trunk light went out and only turns on when it wants. Next the A/C broke. Oh, the glove box is hanging by one hinge. On the positive side, I love the ride and it can do high speeds on the highway. Its gas mileage is great. I would say the quality needs to get better. I bought this car because my Mom owned a 73 Bug and never had a problem. Then I owned it and never had a problem. I mistakenly thought the Jetta would be the same.

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  Great car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Michael - November 27 - 4:46 am

  Just plain awesome, the diesel gets 37- 47mpg, and is very powerful uphill.

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  Delighted - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Schaboing - November 25 - 1:30 am

  Ive owned my Jetta for about a week and so far and I love it. I wasnt looking to buy at this time but after I drove it, I was convinced. It is very German in its design and handling. The ride is firm and the handling is very positive. The electric steering is wonderful in close quarters around parking lots. The transmission shifts incredibly smooth and all of the controls are right at hand. My only complaint is that it is difficult to make a head check when backing up. Other than that, it is a great value and a fun, comfortable car to drive. Oh yeah, the trunk is huge!

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  Love It! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kellie - November 23 - 11:33 pm

  I just recently bought my Jetta. I knew I wanted it when I first laid eyes on it. I test drove it on a Monday and I went and purchased it on Wednesday. It seems better than my Toyota Corolla (03). It is also no comparison between the two cars apperance, exceptfor the the back lights which the Jettas are much better. Also, the Jetta seems a lot bigger. I love it. I commute to work almost 45 minutes each way. I cant wait to leave to drive back and forth. I also got Package 2. It is just as luxurious as Ill get until my dream purchase, which is a 545 BMW. I call it my VMW (HA!). I love it and recommend it to all new car buyers. this car is very affordable and the maintainence seems a lot more conveinent and affordable.

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  Lovin the Base 2.5 model at 65k. - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By love2drive5 - November 23 - 11:19 pm

  I bought this car 3 yrs ago, with 30k miles, I got a great price on it ($12k). it has been great around the city, very responsive. the ASR works! my jetta is a 2.5, automatic and 17" wheels. the seats are not very comfortable for long drives (SF to los angeles). I do recommend to get the sun-roof and heated seats, I wish I did now. I test drove a 2011 jetta SE, it was beautiful, but it did not have the ASR, or the 17" wheels. it did not handle as well as mine. so I will not be trading it in. I have not had and expensive maintenance thank god. but the car does feel less "peppy" with the age. VW was never known for great high mileage cars, so I would recommend this jetta for city people.